2016 Chevrolet Camaro Turbo AutoX

In its 49 years history, the high performing variants of the Camaro have almost always relied on large naturally aspirated V8s. Today, with even marques like Ferrari moving away from naturally aspirated motors in favor of smaller turbocharged engines, it seems likely that ultimately Camaro and Corvette will go down the same path. In that vein, Chevrolet is looking to make the most of its turbocharged 2 liter inline-4 with concepts like the AutoX.

The Turbo AutoX uses a turbocharged 2 liter inline-4 in a package that is lighter than the current Chevrolet V8, which is related to improved handling and weight distribution. The twin scroll turbocharger benefits from a concept cold-air intake system for optimal air density. A new exhaust also adds power and a richer exhaust note.

The concept features a lowering kit that drops the vehicle up to about .75 inches or 20 mm. A concept "plus performance" kit with stiffer links and larger stabilizers bars tightens up handling, and a concept strut tower brace increases chassis rigidity.

“This concept pushes Camaro in a new direction, integrating new performance parts that make the most of the turbocharged Camaro’s lightweight dynamics,” said Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports.

The concept features the Chevrolet Performance suspension lowering kit, which includes stiffer springs and specifically tuned dampers and lowers the ride height up to 0.75 inch (20mm). It is matched with a concept “plus performance” handling kit including larger stabilizer bars and stiffer suspension links. A concept strut tower brace under the hood provides additional chassis stiffness. The whole system contributes to improved roll stiffness and quicker turn-in performance.

For maximum performance lap after lap, a concept cold-air intake system has been fitted to the 2.0L turbo engine and a calibration upgrade to its controller optimizes performance across the rpm band. The turbocharger generates up to 20 pounds of boost and its twin-scroll design helps make the most of the usable power from the engine, practically eliminating turbo lag and helping deliver a broad powerband.

When it’s time to change gears, the concept’s six-speed manual transmission features a concept short-throw shifter to make quicker work of it.

A Chevrolet Performance exhaust system with a polished 4-inch outlet offers a throatier exhaust note and reduces backpressure by approximately 14 percent. An Active Noise Cancellation calibration update is included for vehicles with the Bose® stereo system.

“It’s a great engine for an autocross course because the strong torque production means you can hold a lower gear and just run through the cones without constant shifting,” said Mark Dickens, director of Performance Variants and Parts. “And with the concept handling package providing amazing handling, this car is simply a blast to drive ― and a real surprise for some of the tuner drivers.”

Track-challenging style

“Appearance is very important to the owners of vehicles like this, and the Camaro Turbo AutoX concept was designed to be both race- and show-worthy,” said Adam Barry, Chevrolet designer. “The new Shock Yellow color on the concept reaches out to the new generation of enthusiasts and explores how the Gen 6 Camaro looks in brighter, bolder hues.”

The Shock Yellow color is complemented with Pearl Nickel hood stripes and satin Carbon Flash Metallic accents on the hood vents, rockers and rear diffuser. The vented hood comes from the Camaro SS, while the rear diffuser and rockers were borrowed from a Chevrolet Accessories ground effects kit. The front splitter is also from the SS model, but is modified for the concept. There’s a front tow hook, GoPro camera mount, export side marker lamps and an all-new, accessory rear spoiler that’s making its debut on the concept.